Estoc (Thrusting Sword)

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

An estoc, also called a tuck or a panzerstecher (literally, armor piercer), is a type of sword carried by armored cavalrymen in the mid-to late sixteenth century, during the peak period when plate body armor was in use. It is characterized by a long, narrow, acutely pointed blade, usually triangular in cross section. This resulted in a very stiff blade, designed to puncture mail or pierce the gaps in plate armor.

Arms and Armor

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The principal goals of the Arms and Armor Department are to collect, preserve, research, publish, and exhibit distinguished examples representing the art of the armorer, swordsmith, and gunmaker. Arms and armor have been a vital part of virtually all cultures for thousands of years, pivotal not only in conquest and defense, but also in court pageantry and ceremonial events. Throughout time the best armor and weapons have represented the highest artistic and technical capabilities of the society and period in which they were made, forming a unique aspect of both art history and material culture.

Metropolitan Museum of Art